Chattanooga College Medical Dental and Technical Careers

Advance Your Role in the Operating Room

Surgical First Assist Diploma Program

Take the next step in your surgical career by training to assist directly during procedures and support surgeons with greater responsibility in the operating room.

✔ Advanced surgical training
✔ Hands-on clinical experience
✔ Career advancement-focused program

What Is a Surgical First Assistant?

A Surgical First Assistant (SFA) is a key member of the surgical team who works directly with the surgeon during procedures. Responsibilities may include assisting with tissue handling, maintaining visibility of the surgical site, and supporting procedural efficiency.

This role goes beyond basic surgical support and requires advanced knowledge, precision, and clinical experience.

The Surgical First Assist Diploma at Chattanooga College is designed for individuals ready to expand their role in the operating room and take on greater responsibility.

What You’ll Learn in This
Surgical First Assist Program

Advanced Surgical Skills

Assisting during surgical procedures
Tissue handling, retraction, and exposure
Suturing techniques and wound support

Operating Room Responsibilities

Maintaining the surgical field
Supporting surgeons during procedures
Coordinating within the surgical team

Safety and Clinical Protocols

Sterile technique and infection control
Surgical safety standards
Procedure efficiency and workflow

Surgical First Assistant Career Pathways

Explore advanced career opportunities supporting surgical teams and taking on greater responsibility in the operating room.

Career Options Include:

Surgical First Assistant
Advanced Surgical Support Roles
Operating Room Specialist

Graduates are prepared to function in advanced surgical support roles with increased responsibility in the operating room.

Why Choose Chattanooga College for
Surgical First Assist

Where a small school makes a BIG difference

Advanced Surgical Training

Clinical Experience Opportunities

Career Advancement Focus

Step-by-Step
Skill Development

Real-World Experience

Explore career opportunities where you can apply programming skills and modern development tools in entry-level tech roles.

Participate in clinical environments that reflect real operating rooms
Assist in procedures under supervision
Apply advanced surgical skills in patient-centered settings

Who This
Program Is For

This program is designed for individuals who already have a foundation in surgical or healthcare environments and are ready to advance.
You may be a strong fit if you:

Have experience in surgical technology or a related field

Want to take on a more active role during procedures

Are comfortable in high-responsibility, fast-paced environments

FAQ's

Do I need prior experience to enroll?
This program is best suited for individuals with prior surgical or healthcare experience who are ready to advance their skills.

What does a Surgical First Assistant do during surgery?
They work directly with the surgeon, assisting with exposure, suturing, and maintaining the surgical field.

Where can Surgical First Assistants work?
Hospitals, surgical centers, and specialty clinics.

Is this a step up from Surgical Technologist?
Yes. This program is designed for individuals seeking to expand their responsibilities and role in the operating room.